December 7, 2009 - 11:01 am |
Posted by Jonathan Ross
Direct from the desk of what is being called the “Mayor’s blogosphere spinmeisters” (oh how I wish that a paycheque was included in such an exalted distinction!) by those who no longer work within the halls of power, here’s something to consider…
In a land where research is dwarfed by political spin, the motif above costs $239,000. Thankfully, only a few embittered individuals live there.
Does $239,000 for a logo and a slogan sound reasonable? Of course not, making such an assertion the basis for a fantastic and infuriating story that plays to the public’s worst sensibilities about politics and government.
Instead of such a shallow and manipulative interpretation, let’s examine this kind of expenditure in contrast to what was doled out by the last administration in moving the VEDC forward, and then make a judgement on whether Vancouver citizens are getting value for their money.
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October 2, 2009 - 2:17 pm |
Posted by Jonathan Ross
“I give Robertson full credit for seizing the moment, in the runup to the Olympics, to provide this region with long-overdue economic leadership. The fact he’s teaming up with Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts represents a refreshing change from the usual inter-municipal bickering.” – Jon Ferry, Vancouver Province
“His idea — the first in Canada – is to transform them into low-carbon hubs that would lower greenhouse gas emissions by using green technology, such as electric cars, energy-efficient buildings and green energy sources. By teaming up with California, it’s also hoped an economy of scale can be created for experimentation and the procurement of low-carbon technologies between Vancouver and other cities.
This week, Vancouver’s mayor offered up a new brand for his city: Vancouver Green Capital. Low-carbon economic development zones will help make that more than just a slogan.” – Miro Cernetig, Vancouver Sun
“The mayor used his speech Wednesday afternoon to outline an ambitious strategy to re-brand the city in the lead-up to the 2010 Games. “Vancouver Green Capital” is the result of months of consultations. It’s an “aggressive” attempt to re-imagine our rain-soaked metropolis as a global leader in the burgeoning clean-tech economy.” – Geoff Dembecki, The Tyee
“”Now that the city’s woken up and advanced this new agenda, that’s for the good. As long as it’s backed up with real content, then it’s fantastic.” – Lance Berelowitz, editor of Vancouver’s Olympics bid book
“”We have a wonderful showcase here in Vancouver because of our location, our geography, our climate and our technology sector to show the world what we’re capable of doing.” – Darcy Rezac, Board of Trade
October 2, 2009 - 9:49 am |
Posted by Jonathan Ross
The Fonz never recovered from this shark-jumping leather jacket/swimming suit combination.
Political criticism/objection is at the very core of a healthy democratic system, serving as not only a public service, but also a true art form when done effectively.
That being said, petty personal attacks based on the most trivial of subject matter tend to damage the commentator more than it does the target.
In television, when a program has passed its best before date and veered off into storylines that pervert its original intent or resonance, it is said to have “jumped the shark.” In many cases, this can be pinpointed to one unfortunate episode that precedes the eventual downfall of the show.
With this post from City Caucus, the boys definitely seem to have strapped on their water skis for the bumpy descent down.
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